Melissa Etheridge’s Ex: I Can’t Live On $23K A Month

Twenty grand a month or so probably sounds like a nice payout to most average divorcees out there. However, Melissa Etheridge's ex-partner, Tammy Lynn Michaels, isn't one of them. The 37-year-old former actress has filed documents claiming she cannot survive on the $23,000 Etheridge is granting her monthly in child and spousal support.

So, how much money does Michaels need, exactly? Well, according to the paperwork, she explains she became accustomed to a monthly budget of $128,000 during her nearly 9-year relationship with the iconic rocker. Etheridge and Michaels

Michaels also noted that she "has limited income and virtually no savings," while Etheridge "has extensive resources at her disposal and a tremendous earning capacity."

The couple weathered an acrimonious split in April 2010 and share custody of their 5-year-old twins--daughter Johnnie Rose and son Miller. Michaels' most recent court filing also seeks to reduce Etheridge's custodial time with the children, claiming that Etheridge is teaching them to be "distant and withdrawn" to her.

6. Putting on his Flame-proof suit, 1SBM asks ...

Why do significant others think that because they became accustom to a certain lifestyle based on their former S/O earnings/earning potential; they are somehow entitled to it after the relationship goes south?

Now, I'm in no way advocating no support or resignation to poverty after the lesser earning partner has sacrificed to advance the other's career; but come on!!!!